Marketing a Mountain with Austin Martin
On this episode of the pod, we are joined by Austin Martin, Head of Publicity for Anakeesta in the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. With almost a decade of experience in broadcast television as an anchor, producer, and reporter, Austin brings a unique perspective to creative storytelling, crisis management, and elevating the publicity game for the adventure park. Take a listen on SPOTIFY.
For the past two years, we have collaborated closely with Anakeesta on public relations initiatives and strategic planning. Our joint efforts have been dedicated to the successful launch of two exciting attractions: the Hellbender Mountain Coaster and Bird Venture.
Hellbender, named after the salamander species native to the Smoky Mountains, offers guests an adrenaline-pumping ride as they navigate a steep mountain incline, sway through tunnels, slither through twists and turns, and take in breathtaking 360-degree scenic views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With this new installation, Anakeesta will be home to a single-rail and new double-rail mountain coaster for thrillseekers to enjoy.
BirdVenture provides the whole flock the chance to experience three larger-than-life birdhouses, a dozen adventure zones, and seven giant serpentine slides winding more than 50 feet down the mountain. This unique series of slide paths marks another first of its kind in the United States. Each birdhouse is home to three distinct birds - the owl, woodpecker and bluebird - native to the Smokies.
Here are the top 5 buzzworthy takeaways:
Make a plan.
Every milestone is content.
It’s never too early to start.
Engage with journalists regularly.
Pivot quickly after a crisis, and control the narrative.
Big thanks to Austin Martin for the fun and im-peck-able conversation! We’ll be watching Winter House!